Meet Our Producers-Sheila Moran

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Sheila Moran presents a platter to An Taoiseach Enda Kenny

Sheila Moran-Westport Country Market

Hello, my name is Sheila Moran. I design and create a wide range of exciting, contemporary, kiln-fused glass, jewellery and giftware.

Originally from Dublin, I moved with my family (two boys and husband, Columba) to Westport nine years ago. We’ve recently completed building our own house in Islandeady, where my husband’s family originate and still reside. I am a former bank official, but have always had a huge interest in art, especially the Cubist and Rayonist periods, painting in my spare time, with some success.

While working, I completed a number of evening art courses in NCAD, Dublin. My original goal of becoming a glass artist began in Westport. I got my first taste of fusing glass with stained glass artist, Linda Molloy, then in Cavan, with American fused glass expert Jayne Persico, where the emphasis was on mastering the techniques of kiln formed bracelets and watches. Once trained and techniques mastered, in May 2008, I set about acquiring good quality raw materials to start manufacturing the product. That included, kiln, glass, jewellery findings, cutting tools, kiln tools etc. and I haven’t looked back since.

Jewellery products include glass watches, pendants, earrings, rings, bangles and brooches. Giftware includes clocks, lamps, mirrors, bookmarks, keyrings and letter openers. My range of products has recently expanded to include bowls and platters, each with its own unique stamp.

I joined Westport Country Market in March of this year and it has been very fruitful for me, as it has given me a permanent base from which to sell my craft with no overheads. I have sold consistently to a wide range of regular customers and tourists alike. The market also played a part in my getting the following commissions, recently one of my platters was presented to An Taoiseach by Westport Town Council, and another platter was presented to Minister Michael Ring, again, by the Westport Town Council. But the most important aspect of the market is the warm and friendly atmosphere experienced by both members and customers alike every week and I look forward to participating every Thursday.